The 40-year-old Bury Interchange is about to get its biggest overhaul in decades. Construction starts in mid-November, with a new footbridge and upgraded tram platforms leading the first phase of a project that will reshape the transport hub in the Greater Manchester town centre.
Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) has appointed Oldham-based Willmott Dixon to deliver the first phase, which it expects to complete in early 2028. The same company built Stockport Interchange, which opened in 2024 and has won awards.
What changes will be made to Bury Interchange?
The new footbridge will link Union Square and Pyramid Park. A new lift will give step-free access to the Metrolink platforms. The platforms themselves will be resurfaced and get new canopies, along with upgraded lighting, signage and CCTV, and better passenger information displays and ticketing facilities.
Once that phase is complete, work can begin on redeveloping the whole interchange, making it easier to travel on the Bee Network by bus, tram, walking, wheeling or cycling. The full redevelopment will go to public consultation this winter. A second phase, due to start in 2028, also includes new apartments as part of Bury Council’s wider regeneration and housing plans for the town centre.
Bev Craig, Mayor of Greater Manchester, said thousands of people pass through the interchange every day and that it is “becoming worn out”. Vernon Everitt, Transport Commissioner for Greater Manchester, said the aim is to turn the “outdated facility” into a modern, accessible and welcoming place.
Disruption, trams and parking
Trams will run to Bury throughout most of the project. Some journeys will face planned disruption, and TfGM says it will give passengers advance notice of any changes, with clear information on alternative travel arrangements.
Part of the Metrolink car park will become a construction compound, but most spaces will stay available during the first phase. Short-term closures are possible. If the car park is shut, Metrolink Park and Ride is available at Radcliffe and Whitefield.
Part of a wider town centre plan
Councillor Charlotte Morris, Cabinet Member for Regeneration and Growth at Bury Council, described the interchange as the heart of the town centre masterplan. It sits alongside the Market Flexi Hall, Mill Gate improvements, Pyramid Park and new town centre housing. She said the investment should support new homes, better connections and more footfall for local businesses.
Councillor Lucy Smith, Cabinet Member for Environment, Climate Change and Operations, acknowledged the short-term disruption but said the long-term benefits for residents, businesses and visitors will be significant.
